JP7230503B2 - Ordering system, ordering server device and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure includes an image forming apparatus using consumables, an order server device communicatively connected to the image forming device, and one or more inventory management server devices communicatively connected to the order server device. Concerning ordering system including.

Image forming apparatuses use consumables (for example, toner).

JP 2001-034685 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-330695 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-215401 JP-A-6-149851

User-friendliness is desirable when ordering consumables (eg, toner) to be used in image forming devices.

An ordering system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes:
an image forming apparatus using consumables;
an ordering server device communicably connected to the image forming device;
one or more inventory management server devices communicably connected to the ordering server device;
The image forming apparatus is
transmitting remaining amount information indicating the remaining amount of consumables being used by the image forming apparatus to the ordering server device;
The ordering server device
receiving the remaining amount information from the image forming apparatus;
determining to order consumables to be used by the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information;
Acquiring image forming apparatus position information indicating position information of the image forming apparatus;
Acquiring inventory control server location information indicating location information of each of the one or more inventory control server devices;
Based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information, one inventory management server device having the shortest distance from the image forming device is determined;
An order request for ordering the consumables is transmitted to the determined inventory control server device.

(1) According to the present embodiment, the ordering server device orders consumables from one inventory management server device that is the shortest from the image forming device. This ensures that the consumables arrive in the shortest possible time. In addition, even if the user of the image forming apparatus does not know the inventory management server device closest to the ordering server device, the ordering server device can select the inventory management server device closest to it.

the order request includes the image forming apparatus location information;
The inventory management server device
receiving the order request from the order server device;
When the shipment of the consumables is completed, determining a scheduled arrival schedule of the shipped consumables based on the image forming apparatus location information and the inventory management server location information;
Sending scheduled arrival schedule information indicating the scheduled arrival schedule to the ordering server;
The ordering server device
receiving the scheduled arrival schedule information from the inventory management server device;
The scheduled arrival schedule information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus.

(2) According to the present embodiment, the inventory management server device acquires the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information. A schedule can be determined and transmitted to the image forming apparatus. The image forming device can display an estimated arrival schedule.

The inventory management server device
receiving the order request from the order server device;
when determining that the consumable is out of stock, sending an out-of-stock notification, which is a notification indicating that the consumable is out of stock, to the ordering server device;
The ordering server device
When the out-of-stock notification is received from the inventory management server device,
Based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information, one inventory management server device having the next smallest distance from the image forming device is determined;
An order request for ordering the consumables is transmitted to the determined inventory control server device.

(3) According to the present embodiment, when the ordering server device receives the out-of-stock notification from the inventory management server device, it orders the consumables from one inventory management server device with the next shortest distance from the image forming device. . As a result, it is possible to prevent a large delay in shipment of consumables due to waiting for arrival of consumables as a result of placing an order to an inventory management server device having no stock. In addition, as a result, consumables can be ordered from the closest inventory control server device while consumables are in stock, so that consumables can be delivered in a relatively short period of time. Also, even if the user of the image forming apparatus does not know the inventory management server device with the next shortest distance, the ordering server device can select the inventory management server device with the next shortest distance.

The ordering server device
determining that the ordered consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information received from the image forming apparatus;
A completion notification indicating that the consumable has been attached to the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the inventory management server device.

(4) According to the present embodiment, when the ordering server device determines that the ordered consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus, it transmits a completion notice to the inventory management server device. This allows the inventory management server device to more accurately manage inventory.

the consumables are a plurality of toners;
The image forming apparatus is
for each of the plurality of toners, transmitting to the ordering server the remaining amount information and toner coverage information indicating toner coverage, which is a toner usage rate with respect to paper;
The ordering server device
receiving the remaining amount information and the toner coverage information from the image forming apparatus for each of the plurality of toners;
determining to place an order for the plurality of toners based on the remaining amount information;
determining the highest priority for ordering toner whose remaining amount indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than a threshold, and transmitting an order request for ordering the toner to the inventory management server device;
When there are a plurality of toners whose remaining amount indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than the threshold value, each of the plurality of toners is ordered in descending order from the toner having the highest toner coverage indicated by the toner coverage information. to the inventory control server device.

(5) According to the present embodiment, the ordering server device determines that the priority for ordering toner whose remaining amount is equal to or less than the threshold is the highest. In addition, the ordering server device transmits ordering requests to the inventory management server device in descending order from toner having the highest toner coverage. A high toner coverage means a large amount of toner used, so it is necessary to place an order with priority. As a result, the ordering server device can place orders for toners in descending order of necessity. In addition, since the toner is ordered one by one, there is no possibility that a plurality of toners are collectively ordered to one stock management server device, and the shipping of all the toners is delayed due to lack of stock of some toners.

the consumables are a plurality of toners;
The image forming apparatus is
transmitting the remaining amount information to the ordering server for each of the plurality of toners;
The ordering server device
receiving the remaining amount information from the image forming apparatus for each of the plurality of toners;
determining to place an order for the plurality of toners based on the remaining amount information;
determining a reduction rate of each of the plurality of toners for the specific period based on the remaining amount information for the specific period;
A plurality of order requests for ordering each of the plurality of toners are transmitted to the inventory management server device in descending order from the toner having the highest rate of decrease.

(6) According to the present embodiment, the order server device transmits order requests to the inventory management server device in descending order from the toner with the highest rate of decrease. A high rate of decrease means that the amount of toner used is large, so there is a need to place orders with priority. As a result, the ordering server device can place orders for toners in descending order of necessity. In addition, since the toner is ordered one by one, there is no possibility that a plurality of toners are collectively ordered to one stock management server device, and the shipping of all the toners is delayed due to lack of stock of some toners.

According to the present disclosure, user-friendliness can be achieved when ordering consumables (for example, toner) to be used in an image forming apparatus.

Note that the effects described here are not necessarily limited, and may be any of the effects described in the present disclosure.

1 schematically illustrates an ordering system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 2 shows the hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus; 1 shows the hardware configuration of an ordering server device; 1 shows the hardware configuration of an inventory management server device; 1 shows the hardware configuration of a terminal device; The functional configuration of the ordering system is shown. 4 shows a first operation flow of the ordering server device; 4 shows a second operation flow of the ordering server device; 4 shows an operation flow of the inventory control server device; 4 shows a first operation flow of the image forming apparatus; 4 shows a second operation flow of the image forming apparatus. 4 shows a first operational sequence of the ordering system; 4 shows a second operational sequence of the ordering system; A graph for explaining the rate of decrease is shown. An example of the structure of an inventory management table is shown. An example of the structure of an order table is shown. An example of a message screen is shown. 1 shows an example of a menu screen including a minimal GUI. FIG. 11 shows another example of a menu screen containing a minimal GUI; FIG. 10 shows an example of a copy menu screen including a minimal GUI.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

1. ordering system

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an ordering system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The ordering system 1 has an image forming device 10 , an ordering server device 20 , one or more inventory management server devices 30 , and a terminal device 40 . The image forming device 10, the order server device 20, one or more inventory management server devices 30, and the terminal device 40 are connected to a network N including the Internet. Hereinafter, only one inventory control server device 30 will be illustrated and described when there is no need to distinguish between one or more inventory control server devices 30 .

The image forming apparatus 10 is, for example, an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral). The image forming apparatus 10 uses consumables. In this embodiment, the "consumable" is toner.

The order server device 20 transmits an order request for ordering consumables to be used by the image forming device 10 to the inventory management server device 30 according to the remaining amount of the consumables that the image forming device 10 is using. .

The inventory management server device 30 is used by consumable distributors (sellers). The inventory management server device 30 receives an order request from the order server device 20, transmits a shipping request to the terminal device 40, and manages the inventory of consumables.

The terminal device 40 is used by an employee at a site (such as a warehouse) where consumables are shipped. The terminal device 40 receives a shipping request from the inventory management server device 30 . The employee physically ships the consumables according to the received shipping request. The terminal device 40 is typically a mobile device such as a smart phone or tablet computer, but may be a non-mobile device such as a personal computer.

2. Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus

FIG. 2 shows the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus.

An image forming apparatus 10 (image forming apparatus) includes a control circuit 100 . The control circuit 100 includes a CPU 11a (Central Processing Unit) that is a processor, a RAM 11b (Random Access Memory), a ROM 11c (Read Only Memory) that is a memory, a dedicated hardware circuit, and the like. Controls movement. The CPU 11a loads an information processing program stored in the ROM 11c into the RAM 11b and executes it. The ROM 11c permanently stores programs and data executed by the CPU 11a. ROM 11c is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

The control circuit 100 includes a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver 11, an image reading unit 12 (image scanner), an image processing unit 14 (including a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)), an image memory 15, and an image forming unit 16 (printer). , an operation unit 17 (touch panel) having a display unit 17a, a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device 18 such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive), a facsimile communication unit 19, a network communication interface 13, and the like. It is The control circuit 100 controls the operation of the above-mentioned connected units and transmits/receives signals or data to/from each unit.

3. Hardware configuration of ordering server device

FIG. 3 shows the hardware configuration of the ordering server device.

The ordering server device 20 includes a CPU 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, a large-capacity non-volatile storage device 24 such as an HDD or SSD, a network communication interface 25, an operation device 26, a display device 27, and a bus 28 interconnecting them. have

The CPU 21 , ROM 22 and RAM 23 constitute a control circuit 200 . The CPU 21 loads an information processing program stored in the ROM 22 into the RAM 23 and executes it. The ROM 22 permanently stores programs and data executed by the CPU 21 . ROM 22 is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

4. Hardware configuration of inventory management server device

FIG. 4 shows the hardware configuration of the inventory management server device.

The inventory management server device 30 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device 34 such as an SSD, a network communication interface 35, an operation device 36, a display device 37 (touch panel), and a GPS receiver device 39. and a bus 38 interconnecting them.

The CPU 31 , ROM 32 and RAM 33 constitute a control circuit 300 . The CPU 31 loads an information processing program stored in the ROM 32 into the RAM 33 and executes it. The ROM 32 permanently stores programs and data executed by the CPU 31 . ROM 32 is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

5. Hardware configuration of the terminal device

FIG. 5 shows the hardware configuration of the terminal device.

The terminal device 40 includes a CPU 41, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device 44 such as an HDD or SSD, a network communication interface 45, an operation device 46, a display device 47, and a reading device 49 (an imaging device such as a camera). , and a bus 48 interconnecting them.

The CPU 41 , ROM 42 and RAM 43 constitute a control circuit 400 . The CPU 41 loads an information processing program stored in the ROM 42 into the RAM 43 and executes it. The ROM 42 permanently stores programs and data executed by the CPU 41 . ROM 42 is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

6. Functional configuration of ordering system

FIG. 6 shows the functional configuration of the ordering system.

In the control circuit 100 of the image forming apparatus 10, the CPU 11a loads an information processing program stored in the ROM 11c into the RAM 11b and executes it, thereby operating as a screen data acquisition unit 101, a screen display control unit 102, and a toner installation determination unit 103. do.

In the control circuit 200 of the ordering server device 20, the CPU 21 loads the information processing program stored in the ROM 22 into the RAM 23 and executes it to obtain a consumables information acquisition unit 201, an order determination unit 202, an order placement unit 203, and a schedule acquisition unit. 204, it operates as the screen generation unit 205;

In the control circuit 300 of the inventory management server device 30, the CPU 31 loads an information processing program stored in the ROM 32 into the RAM 33 and executes it, thereby obtaining an order request acquisition unit 301, an inventory management unit 302, a shipping request unit 303, and a schedule determination unit. The unit 304 operates as a completion notice acquisition unit 305 . The storage device 34 of the inventory management server device 30 stores an inventory management table 310 and an order table 320.

7. How the ordering system works

FIG. 12 shows the first operational sequence of the ordering system.

FIG. 7 shows the first operation flow of the ordering server device.

The consumables information acquisition unit 201 of the order server device 20 receives the image forming device identifier, the image forming device location information, and the consumables information from the image forming device 10 via the network N (step S101). The ordering server device 20 may receive these information periodically from the image forming device 10, may receive these information as a response to polling the image forming device 10 periodically, and may receive the remaining amount of information. becomes a specific value (order threshold), the information may be received from the image forming apparatus 10 .

The “image forming device identifier” is, for example, a serial number, and uniquely identifies each image forming device 10 . “Image forming device position information” is information indicating the position of the image forming device 10 , for example, GPS information received by the GPS receiver 11 of the image forming device 10 . "Consumables information" is information about consumables (toner) being used by the image forming apparatus 10, and includes, for example, toner name, toner identifier, remaining amount information, and toner coverage information. "Toner Name" identifies the type of toner and includes, for example, model name and color name. A "toner identifier" is, for example, a serial number that uniquely identifies each toner. The remaining amount information indicates the remaining amount of toner (toner level) being used by the image forming apparatus 10 . "Toner Coverage" is the rate of toner usage per sheet (eg, per sheet of paper). For example, when the entire paper is filled with black. Black toner coverage is 100%.

The order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 determines whether or not to order the consumables to be used by the image forming apparatus 10 based on the remaining amount information included in the consumables information received from the image forming apparatus 10 . For example, the order determination unit 202 determines whether the remaining amount is equal to or less than the order threshold based on the received consumables information (step S102). The "ordering threshold" may be, for example, about 10 to 30%, which is a value higher than low (about 5%).

When the order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 determines that the remaining amount is equal to or less than the order threshold (step S102, YES), the received toner name is sent to the image forming device 10 identified by the received image forming device identifier. It is determined whether or not the identified toner has already been ordered (step S103). When the order determination unit 202 determines that toner has not been ordered for this image forming apparatus 10 (step S103, NO), it determines whether or not there are a plurality of toners to be ordered (step S104).

When the order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 determines that there are a plurality of toners to be ordered (step S104, YES), the ordering order of the plurality of toners is determined based on the priority (step S105). “There are a plurality of toners to be ordered” refers to ordering toners of a plurality of colors for one image forming apparatus 10 or ordering toners for each of a plurality of image forming apparatuses 10 . The order determination unit 202 gives the highest priority to the remaining amount of toner, the second priority to the toner coverage, and the third priority to the toner reduction rate, and determines the order of ordering the plurality of toners. Specifically, it is as follows.

FIG. 8 shows a second operational flow of the ordering server device.

The order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 determines whether or not there is toner whose remaining amount is equal to or less than a threshold among the plurality of toners (step S201). The "threshold" is typically a value smaller than the order threshold (about 10 to 30%), for example about 5% (low).

The order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20, if there is toner whose remaining amount is equal to or less than the threshold (step S201, YES), and if there is only one toner whose remaining amount is equal to or less than the threshold (step S202, NO), the toner is Select (step S203). The order determining unit 202 determines the ordering order of the selected toner (step S207). The order determination unit 202 sets the initial value to 1 and increments the value by 1 to determine the order of ordering each toner.

On the other hand, the order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 compares the toner coverage of the plurality of toners (step S201, NO) or if there are a plurality of toners whose remaining amount is equal to or less than the threshold (step S202, YES). S204, YES). The order determination unit 202 selects the toner with the highest toner coverage (step S205). The order determination unit 202 determines the order of order for the selected toner (step S207).

On the other hand, if the toner coverage of a plurality of toners is unknown (typically, toner coverage information has not been received from the image forming apparatus 10), the order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 (step S204, NO). Then, based on the remaining amount information for the specific period, the reduction rate of the plurality of toners during the specific period is determined, and the toner with the highest reduction rate is selected (step S206). The order determination unit 202 determines the order of order for the selected toner (step S207).

FIG. 14 shows a graph for explaining the reduction rate.

Specifically, the order determination unit 202 of the order server device 20 calculates the remaining amount (broken line in FIG. 14) for a specific period (for example, one week) received from the image forming device 10 using the least squares method. A linear approximation formula is obtained, and the slope (-2.7857 in FIG. 14) of the approximation straight line (solid line in FIG. 14) is calculated. A larger slope (negative value) means a higher toner level decrease rate.

Referring to FIG. 8, order determination unit 202 of order server device 20 determines the order of ordering all of the plurality of toners (step S208). That is, the order determination unit 202 determines that the priority of placing an order for toner with a remaining amount equal to or less than the threshold is the highest, or in descending order from the toner with the highest toner coverage, or from the toner with the highest decrease rate. In descending order, the ordering order of all the plurality of toners is determined.

Referring to FIG. 7, order determination unit 202 of order server device 20 determines the order destination inventory management server device 30 for each toner to be ordered (step S106). Specifically, based on the image forming apparatus location information received from the image forming apparatus 10 (step S101) and the location information of the inventory management server apparatus 30 (inventory management server location information), the order determination unit 202 One inventory management server device 30 with the shortest distance from is determined as the order destination.

The ordering server device 20 receives the inventory management server location information from the inventory management server device 30 via the network N periodically or at an arbitrary timing (for example, when connecting to or reconnecting to the network N). do it. The “inventory management server location information” is, for example, GPS information received by the GPS receiver 39 of the inventory management server device 30 .

The order placement unit 203 of the order server device 20 transmits an order request for ordering toner to the inventory management server device 30 of the ordering party via the network N (step S107). The "order request" includes the toner name (including model name and color name) of the toner to be ordered, and the image forming apparatus identifier and image forming apparatus location information of the image forming apparatus 10 that should use the ordered toner. .

FIG. 9 shows the operation flow of the inventory management server device.

The order request acquisition unit 301 of the inventory management server device 30 receives an order request from the order server device 20 via the network N (step S301).

The inventory management unit 302 of the inventory management server device 30 refers to the inventory management table 310 stored in the storage device 34 and selects the toner indicated by the toner name included in the order request received from the order server device 20 (in other words, the toner to be ordered). toner) is determined (step S302).

FIG. 15 shows an example of the structure of an inventory management table.

The inventory management table 310 stores toner names 311, toner identifiers 312, and inventory statuses 313 in association with each other. Toner name 311 identifies the type of toner and includes, for example, model name and color name. The toner identifier 312 is, for example, a serial number that uniquely identifies each toner. The inventory status 313 is either "In stock", "Order" or "Delivered". "In stock" indicates that the toner is in stock. "Order" indicates that the inventory management server device 30 has sent a toner order request to the terminal device 40, but has not yet been shipped. “Delivered” indicates that the toner has arrived at the image forming apparatus 10 site.

Referring to FIG. 9 , inventory management unit 302 of inventory management server device 30 refers to inventory management table 310 and sets “In stock” as inventory status 313 in toner name 311 included in the order request received from order server device 20 . ' is associated (that is, there is a stock of toner to be ordered) (step S302). The inventory management unit 302 of the inventory management server device 30 determines that "In stock" is associated with the toner name 311 (that is, the toner to be ordered is in stock) (step S303, YES).

Next, the inventory management unit 302 of the inventory management server device 30 refers to the order table 320 stored in the storage device 34 and selects the toner indicated by the toner name included in the order request received from the order server device 20 as the order request. It is determined whether or not the package has been shipped to the image forming apparatus 10 identified by the included image forming apparatus identifier during the most recent specific period (for example, several days to several weeks) (step S304). This is to prevent duplicate shipment of the same toner to the same image forming apparatus 10 .

FIG. 16 shows an example of the structure of an order table.

The order table 320 stores toner names 321, toner identifiers 322, image forming apparatus identifiers 323, and image forming apparatus position information 324 in association with each other. In the order table 320, information on toner for which the inventory management server device 30 has sent a shipping request to the terminal device 40 in the most recent specific period is registered.

Referring to FIG. 9, inventory management unit 302 of inventory management server device 30 registers toner name 321 and image forming device identifier 323 included in the order request received from order server device 20 in order table 320 in association with each other. (step S304).

The inventory management unit 302 of the inventory management server device 30 determines that the toner name 321 and the image forming device identifier 323 are not registered in association with each other (step S304, NO). This indicates that the toner indicated by the toner name 321 has not been shipped to the image forming apparatus 10 identified by the image forming apparatus identifier 323 in the most recent specific period (there is no possibility of duplicate shipment). The inventory management unit 302 associates the toner name 321, the image forming apparatus identifier 323, and the image forming apparatus location information 324 included in the order request received from the order server device 20 with the toner identifier 322 of the toner to be shipped. Register in order table 320 .

The shipment request unit 303 of the inventory management server device 30 transmits a toner shipment request (e.g., electronic mail) to the terminal device 40 via the network N (step S305). A “shipment request” is a request for physically shipping and delivering toner, unlike an “order request”.

The terminal device 40 is used by an employee at a site (such as a warehouse) where toner is shipped. The terminal device 40 receives a shipping request (e.g., e-mail) from the inventory management server device 30 via the network N. FIG. The employee physically ships the toner according to the received shipping request. When the terminal device 40 detects a specific operation input to the operation device 46 by the employee (for example, an operation for connecting to the link destination included in the e-mail), the terminal device 40 sends a shipping completion notification to the inventory management server device 30. Send over network N.

The shipping request unit 303 of the inventory management server device 30 receives the shipping completion notification from the terminal device 40 via the network N (step S306, YES). When the shipping request unit 303 receives the shipping completion notice (that is, when the shipping of the consumables is completed), the shipping request unit 303 updates the stock status 313 of the shipped toner from "In stock" to "Order" in the stock management table 310. (step S307).

The schedule determination unit 304 of the inventory management server device 30 determines the scheduled arrival schedule of the shipped toner based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information (step S308). In short, the schedule determination unit 304 may determine the scheduled arrival schedule based on the distance between the image forming device 10 and the inventory management server device 30 . The schedule determination unit 304 transmits the scheduled arrival schedule information to the ordering server device 20 via the network N (step S309). The "scheduled arrival schedule information" includes scheduled arrival schedule (date and time, etc.) and toner name.

Referring to FIG. 7, the schedule acquisition unit 204 of the ordering server device 20 receives the scheduled arrival schedule information from the inventory management server device 30 via the network N (step S108, YES). The screen generation unit 205 of the order server device 20 generates message screen data MSG for displaying a message screen indicating the scheduled arrival schedule on the display unit 17a of the image forming device 10 based on the received scheduled arrival schedule information (step S109). The screen generator 205 transmits the generated message screen data MSG to the image forming apparatus 10 via the network N (step S110).

FIG. 10 shows a first operation flow of the image forming apparatus.

The screen data acquisition unit 101 of the image forming apparatus 10 receives the message screen data MSG from the order server device 20 via the network N (step S401). The screen data acquisition unit 101 stores the received message screen data MSG in the nonvolatile storage device 18 (step S402). The screen display control unit 102 of the image forming apparatus 10 reads the message screen data MSG from the storage device 18, generates the message screen 110, and displays it on the display unit 17a (step S403).

FIG. 17 shows an example of a message screen.

The message screen 110 includes a toner name 111 , an expected arrival schedule (date and time, etc.) 112 , and a close button 113 . The close button 113 is a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for inputting a request for minimizing the message screen 110 via the operation unit 17 .

Referring to FIG. 10, screen display control unit 102 of image forming apparatus 10 detects that close button 113 included in message screen 110 has been operated via operation unit 17 (step S404, YES). In other words, screen display control unit 102 detects a request to minimize the message screen. Then, the screen display control unit 102 reads the menu screen including the minimum GUI from the storage device 18 and displays it on the display unit 17a.

FIG. 18 shows an example of a menu screen containing a minimal GUI.

The menu screen 120 includes a minimum GUI 121 and a plurality of GUIs 122 (displaying a copy function GUI 123) indicating a plurality of functions currently executable by the image forming apparatus 10. FIG. The minimal GUI 121 is a GUI indicating that the message screen 110 has been minimized.

FIG. 19 shows another example of a menu screen containing a minimal GUI.

The menu screen 130 includes a minimum GUI 131 and a plurality of GUIs 132 showing a plurality of functions currently executable by the image forming apparatus 10 (copy function GUI not displayed). The minimal GUI 131 is a GUI indicating that the message screen 110 has been minimized.

Referring to FIG. 10, screen display control unit 102 of image forming apparatus 10 determines whether toner of all colors of image forming apparatus 10 is empty (step S405). If there is even one color of toner that is not empty (step S405, NO), the image forming apparatus 10 can execute part of the copy function (for example, black-and-white copying can be executed, but full-color copying cannot be executed). Accordingly, the screen display control unit 102 displays the menu screen 120 (displaying the copy function GUI 123) (step S406, FIG. 18). If all color toners of the image forming apparatus 10 are empty (step S405, YES), the image forming apparatus 10 cannot perform all of the copy functions (for example, black-and-white copying and full-color copying cannot be performed). Accordingly, the screen display control unit 102 displays the menu screen 130 (the copy function GUI is not displayed) (step S407, FIG. 19).

The following description assumes that there is toner that is not empty (step S405, NO) and that the menu screen 120 (displaying the copy function GUI 123) is displayed (step S406, FIG. 18).

The user operates the copy function GUI 123 included in the menu screen 120 displayed on the operation unit 17 (touch panel) having the display unit 17a. When the screen display control unit 102 detects the operation, the screen display control unit 102 reads the copy menu screen 140 including the minimum GUI 141 from the storage device 18 and displays it on the display unit 17a.

FIG. 20 shows an example of a copy menu screen including a minimal GUI.

The copy menu screen 140 includes a minimum GUI 141, a plurality of color selection function GUIs 142, and the like. The minimal GUI 141 is a GUI indicating that the message screen 110 has been minimized. A plurality of color selection function GUIs 142 are GUIs for selecting the color mode of the copy function.

Referring to FIG. 10, screen display control unit 102 of image forming apparatus 10 detects a request for selecting non-executable color selection function GUI 142 input via operation unit 17 (step S408, YES). . For example, when black-and-white copying is executable but full-color copying is not, the full-color GUI 143 is selected. In this case, the screen display control unit 102 reads the message screen data MSG from the storage device 18, generates the message screen 110, and displays it on the display unit 17a (step S403).

The screen display control unit 102 of the image forming apparatus 10 also requests to maximize the minimum GUIs 121, 131, 141 displayed on the respective screens 120, 130, 140 (that is, the operation of the minimum GUIs 121, 131, 141). is detected (step S409, YES), the message screen data MSG is read from the storage device 18, and the message screen 110 is generated and displayed on the display unit 17a (step S403).

FIG. 13 shows the second operational sequence of the ordering system.

FIG. 11 shows a second operational flow of the image forming apparatus.

The shipped toner arrives at the site of the image forming apparatus 10 , and the user of the image forming apparatus 10 physically attaches the toner to the image forming apparatus 10 . The toner installation determination unit 103 of the image forming apparatus 10 detects that the toner identified by the new toner identifier has been physically installed (step S501, YES). Then, the toner installation determining unit 103 deletes the message screen data MSG (step S402) stored in the storage device 18 from the storage device 18 (step S502). As a result, the screen display control unit 102 of the image forming apparatus 10 cannot read the message screen data MSG from the storage device 18, generate the message screen 110, and display it on the display unit 17a. Further, the screen display control unit 102 reads a menu screen (not shown) that does not include the minimum GUI from the storage device 18 and displays it on the display unit 17a.

The toner attachment determination unit 103 of the image forming apparatus 10 transmits the image forming apparatus identifier, the image forming apparatus position information, and the consumables information to the ordering server apparatus 20 via the network N periodically or at any timing. (step S503). As described above, "consumables information" includes, for example, toner name, toner identifier, remaining amount information, and toner coverage information. Therefore, the consumables information of the image forming apparatus 10 in which new toner is installed includes the new toner identifier and remaining amount information (close to 100%).

Referring to FIG. 7, the consumables information acquisition unit 201 of the ordering server device 20 receives the image forming device identifier, the image forming device location information, and the consumables information from the image forming device 10 via the network N ( step S101). The order determination unit 202 determines that the remaining amount is greater than the order threshold (step S102, NO). The order determination unit 202 determines whether or not the received consumables information includes a new toner identifier and remaining amount information (close to 100%) (step S111). In this example, the order determination unit 202 determines that the consumables information includes a new toner identifier and remaining amount information (close to 100%) (step S111, YES). Accordingly, the order determination unit 202 determines that the ordered toner is attached to the image forming apparatus 10 .

The ordering unit 203 of the ordering server device 20 transmits, via the network N, a completion notification indicating that toner has been installed in the image forming device 10 to the inventory management server device 30 that transmitted the ordering request (step S107) ( step S112). The “completion notification” includes the toner identifier and the image forming device identifier received from the image forming device 10 .

Referring to FIG. 9, completion notification acquisition unit 305 of inventory management server device 30 receives the completion notification from ordering server device 20 via network N (step S310, YES). The completion notification acquisition unit 305 updates the inventory status 313 associated with the toner identifier 312 included in the completion notification from "Order" to "Delivered" in the inventory management table 310 (step S311).

The above is the mainstream of the operation flow. The tributaries (1) and (2) of the operation flow will be described below.

(1) When there is no stock of toner to be ordered in the stock management server device

Referring to FIG. 9, the inventory management unit 302 of the inventory management server device 30 refers to the inventory management table 310 and finds that there is no toner name 311 associated with "In stock" as the inventory status 313 (that is, toner to be ordered). is out of stock) (step S303, NO). In this case, the inventory management unit 302 transmits an out-of-stock notification indicating that the toner to be ordered is out of stock to the ordering server device 20 via the network N (step S312).

Referring to FIG. 7, order determination unit 202 of order server device 20 receives the out-of-stock notification from inventory management server device 30 via network N (step S113, YES). Then, the order determination unit 202 determines another inventory management server device 30 as the order destination (step S106).

(2) When toner is shipped during the most recent specific period in the inventory management server device

Referring to FIG. 9, the inventory management unit 302 of the inventory management server device 30 shipped the toner indicated by the toner name 321 to the image forming device 10 identified by the image forming device identifier 323 during the most recent specific period (duplicated). shipping) (step S304, YES). In this case, the inventory management unit 302 transmits a shipping completion notice indicating that the shipment has been completed to the ordering server device 20 via the network N (step S313).

Referring to FIG. 7, order determination unit 202 of order server device 20 receives the shipping completion notification from inventory management server device 30 via network N (step S114). Then, the order determination unit 202 terminates the processing.

8. Conclusion

(1) The image forming apparatus consumes toner, which is a consumable item. The user of the image forming apparatus needs to order new consumables when the remaining amount of consumables is low. However, the user of the image forming apparatus needs to know the information of the orderer (distributor (seller)) in advance, and the orderer known by the user is not always the best (distant, etc.). In addition, the supplier known to the user does not always have toner in stock.

(1-1) On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the ordering server device 20 orders consumables from one inventory management server device 30 closest to the image forming device 10 (step S107). ). This ensures that the consumables arrive in the shortest possible time. Further, even if the user of the image forming apparatus 10 does not know the inventory management server device 30 closest to the ordering server device 20, the inventory management server device 30 with the shortest distance can be selected.

(1-2) According to the present embodiment, the inventory management server device 30 acquires the image forming device 10 location information and the inventory management server location information. Based on the distance, an estimated arrival schedule can be determined (step S109) and transmitted to the image forming apparatus 10 (step S110). The image forming apparatus 10 can display the scheduled arrival schedule (step S403).

(1-3) According to the present embodiment, when the ordering server device 20 receives the out-of-stock notification from the inventory management server device 30 (step S113, YES), the order server device 20 receives the next shortest distance from the image forming device 10. Consumables are ordered from the inventory management server device 30 (step S106). As a result, the shipment of consumables will not be greatly delayed as a result of placing an order to the inventory management server device 30 that is out of stock. In addition, as a result, consumables can be ordered from the closest inventory management server device 30 among the consumables in stock, so that the consumables can be delivered in a relatively short time. Further, even if the user of the image forming apparatus 10 does not know the inventory management server device 30 with the next shortest distance, the ordering server device 20 can select the inventory management server device 30 with the next shortest distance.

(1-4) According to the present embodiment, when the ordering server device 20 determines that the consumables that have been ordered are attached to the image forming device 10 (step S111, YES), the ordering server device 20 sends a completion notification to the inventory management server device. 30 (step S112). As a result, the inventory management server device 30 can more accurately manage inventory.

(1-5) According to the present embodiment, the ordering server device 20 determines that the priority for ordering toner whose remaining amount is equal to or less than the threshold is the highest (step S203). The order server device 20 also transmits an order request to the inventory management server device 30 in descending order from the toner with the highest toner coverage (step S205). A high toner coverage means a large amount of toner used, so it is necessary to place an order with priority. As a result, the ordering server device 20 can place orders for toners in descending order of necessity. In addition, since the toner is ordered one by one, there is no possibility that a plurality of toners are collectively ordered to one stock management server device 30 and that delivery of all the toners is delayed due to lack of stock of some toners. .

(1-6) According to the present embodiment, order server device 20 transmits an order request to inventory management server device 30 in descending order from the toner with the highest rate of decrease (step S206). A high rate of decrease means that the amount of toner used is large, so there is a need to place orders with priority. As a result, the ordering server device 20 can place orders for toners in descending order of necessity. In addition, since the toner is ordered one by one, there is no possibility that a plurality of toners are collectively ordered to one stock management server device 30 and that delivery of all the toners is delayed due to lack of stock of some toners. .

(2) The display device of the image forming apparatus is smaller than the display device of a personal computer or the like. For this reason, if a message screen indicating the expected arrival schedule of consumables and the like is displayed on the display device of the image forming apparatus, the area for displaying other information may be narrowed, and other operations may be difficult to input. On the other hand, if the message screen is hidden by one user's operation, other users may not be able to know the information contained in the message screen.

(2-1) On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 10 detects a request to minimize the message screen (step S404, YES), the minimum GUI is displayed on the display unit 17a. (Steps S406 and S407). In this manner, the image forming apparatus 10 can explicitly indicate to the user that there is a message screen by displaying the minimum GUI. When the image forming apparatus 10 detects a request for maximizing the minimum GUI (step S409, YES), the image forming apparatus 10 reads the message screen data from the nonvolatile storage device 18 and displays the message screen on the display unit 17a (step S403). By storing the message screen data in the non-volatile storage device 18 in this way, the image forming apparatus 10 can display the message screen when the user wants to maximize it.

(2-2) According to the present embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 10 no longer needs to display the message screen (step S501, YES), it hides the message screen and the minimum GUI on the display unit 17a ( Step S502), there is no possibility that unnecessary screens are displayed and the display unit 17a and the operating device become difficult to use. Also, by not displaying the message screen and the minimum GUI on the display unit 17a, it is possible to inform the user that the consumable is attached.

(2-3) According to the present embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 10 detects a request to select the function GUI of an unexecutable function (step S408, YES), the message screen data is stored in the nonvolatile storage device 18. , and the message screen is displayed on the display unit 17a (step S403). Accordingly, the image forming apparatus 10 can display the message screen when there is a high need to convey a message to the user.

(2-4) According to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 displays the minimum GUI and hides the GUI indicating the function when all functions that use consumables cannot be executed ( step S407). In this manner, the image forming apparatus 10 can clearly indicate to the user that the message screen exists by displaying the minimum GUI, and can inform the user that all functions cannot be executed.

Although the embodiments and modifications of the present technology have been described above, the present technology is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present technology. Of course.

Order system 1
image forming apparatus 10
Order server device 20
Inventory management server device 30
Terminal device 40
Screen data acquisition unit 101
Screen display control unit 102
Toner installation determination unit 103
Consumables information acquisition unit 201
Order decision unit 202
Ordering unit 203
Schedule acquisition unit 204
Screen generator 205
Order request acquisition unit 301
Inventory management section 302
Shipping request unit 303
Schedule determination unit 304
Completion notification acquisition unit 305

Claims (7)

an image forming apparatus using consumables;
an ordering server device communicably connected to the image forming device;
one or more inventory management server devices communicably connected to the ordering server device;
The image forming apparatus is
transmitting remaining amount information indicating the remaining amount of consumables being used by the image forming apparatus to the ordering server device;
The ordering server device
receiving the remaining amount information from the image forming apparatus;
determining to order consumables to be used by the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information;
Acquiring image forming apparatus position information indicating position information of the image forming apparatus;
Acquiring inventory control server location information indicating location information of each of the one or more inventory control server devices;
Based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information, one inventory management server device having the shortest distance from the image forming device is determined;
sending an order request for ordering the consumables to the determined inventory management server device;
determining that the ordered consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information received from the image forming apparatus;
sending a completion notification indicating that the consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus to the inventory management server device;
ordering system. The ordering system according to claim 1,
the order request includes the image forming apparatus location information;
The inventory management server device
receiving the order request from the order server device;
When the shipment of the consumables is completed, determining a scheduled arrival schedule of the shipped consumables based on the image forming apparatus location information and the inventory management server location information;
transmitting scheduled arrival schedule information indicating the scheduled arrival schedule to the ordering server device ;
The ordering server device
receiving the scheduled arrival schedule information from the inventory management server device;
An ordering system that transmits the scheduled arrival schedule information to the image forming apparatus. The ordering system according to claim 1 or 2,
The inventory management server device
receiving the order request from the order server device;
when determining that the consumable is out of stock, sending an out-of-stock notification, which is a notification indicating that the consumable is out of stock, to the ordering server device;
The ordering server device
When the out-of-stock notification is received from the inventory management server device,
Based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information, one inventory management server device having the next smallest distance from the image forming device is determined;
An ordering system that transmits an ordering request for ordering the consumables to the determined inventory management server device. The ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
the consumables are a plurality of toners;
The image forming apparatus is
for each of the plurality of toners, transmitting the remaining amount information and toner coverage information indicating toner coverage, which is a toner usage rate with respect to paper , to the ordering server device ;
The ordering server device
receiving the remaining amount information and the toner coverage information from the image forming apparatus for each of the plurality of toners;
determining to place an order for the plurality of toners based on the remaining amount information;
determining the highest priority for ordering toner whose remaining amount indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than a threshold, and transmitting an order request for ordering the toner to the inventory management server device;
When there are a plurality of toners whose remaining amount indicated by the remaining amount information is equal to or less than the threshold value, each of the plurality of toners is ordered in descending order from the toner having the highest toner coverage indicated by the toner coverage information. to the inventory control server device. The ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
the consumables are a plurality of toners;
The image forming apparatus is
transmitting the remaining amount information to the ordering server device for each of the plurality of toners;
The ordering server device
receiving the remaining amount information from the image forming apparatus for each of the plurality of toners;
determining to place an order for the plurality of toners based on the remaining amount information;
determining a reduction rate of each of the plurality of toners for the specific period based on the remaining amount information for the specific period;
an ordering system that transmits a plurality of ordering requests for ordering each of the plurality of toners to the inventory management server device in descending order from the toner having the highest rate of decrease. Receiving remaining amount information indicating the remaining amount of the consumables being used by the image forming apparatus using the consumables from the image forming apparatus,
determining to order consumables to be used by the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information;
Acquiring image forming apparatus position information indicating position information of the image forming apparatus;
Acquiring inventory management server location information indicating location information of each one or more inventory management server devices,
Based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information, one inventory management server device having the shortest distance from the image forming device is determined;
sending an order request for ordering the consumables to the determined inventory management server device;
determining that the ordered consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information received from the image forming apparatus;
sending a completion notification indicating that the consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus to the inventory management server device;
Order server device. The control circuit of the ordering server device,
Receiving remaining amount information indicating the remaining amount of the consumables being used by the image forming apparatus using the consumables from the image forming apparatus,
determining to order consumables to be used by the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information;
Acquiring image forming apparatus position information indicating position information of the image forming apparatus;
Acquiring inventory management server location information indicating location information of each one or more inventory management server devices,
Based on the image forming device location information and the inventory management server location information, one inventory management server device having the shortest distance from the image forming device is determined;
sending an order request for ordering the consumables to the determined inventory management server device;
determining that the ordered consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus based on the remaining amount information received from the image forming apparatus;
sending a completion notification indicating that the consumables have been attached to the image forming apparatus to the inventory management server device;
An information processing program that operates like

Images